As Bayonne's only musical theatre program unaffiliated with a school,
we provide accessible, high-quality musical theatre training by removing financial barriers so every aspiring artist can shine.
OUR MISSION
The Artists Avenue empowers young performers by making high-quality, accessible arts education available to all students. Through diverse opportunities in theatre and the performing arts, we foster a supportive and inclusive environment where young people can grow, express themselves, develop their talents, and find their unique voice regardless of financial circumstances.
OUR STORY
The Artists Avenue, a transformative initiative, was founded a decade ago by the visionary Filipino American sisters Larissa, Melissa, and Melody Enriquez. Driven by their passion for music and a strong commitment to fostering young talent, they launched this venture with the goal of sharing the powerful gift of music with aspiring artists. United by family values and a shared vision, they set out to create a platform that empowers and uplifts individuals who dream of honing their artistic skills and exploring the limitless potential of their creativity.
Their work has since blossomed into a vibrant community that nurtures artistic expression, providing guidance, resources, and support to those seeking to refine their talents. Through this initiative, the Enriquez sisters have not only offered a space for learning but have also inspired countless young people to pursue their artistic dreams, making a lasting impact on the lives of many.
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Children are children but for a moment,
and if in that moment we could make a positive impact in their lives, then that child will carry that experience with them to adulthood and hopefully look to do or be the same in another child's life. - Larissa Enriquez
OUR VISION
At The Artists Avenue, we envision an inclusive and accessible arts community where students of all backgrounds, experiences, and skill levels have the opportunity to learn, grow, and create together. We emulate a professional theatre environment where performers of varying experience come together as an ensemble, each contributing their unique strengths and talents to bring a production to life.
By bringing beginners and experienced performers into the same collaborative environment, students learn from one another, build confidence, and develop leadership skills through mentorship, teamwork, and shared artistic goals. Inspired by the collaborative standards of professional theatre, our approach challenges students to grow both individually and as an ensemble while giving them the opportunity to experience the process of working together to create and perform a complete production.
We strive to create meaningful theatrical experiences where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to contribute—regardless of their experience or skill level.
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OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION
The Artists Avenue is a creative home where every young person belongs. We celebrate the unique voices, experiences, and backgrounds that make up our community, and we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to participate, learn, and grow.
Our programs are open to students from all walks of life, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, or income level. We believe access to quality arts education should not be limited by a family's financial circumstances. We work to keep our programs affordable through accessible tuition, scholarship opportunities, community partnerships, and a commitment to never turn a student away due to financial hardship.
We also believe that inclusion means creating an environment where students of different ages, backgrounds, experiences, and skill levels can learn from and support one another. When young artists feel valued, respected, and free to express themselves authentically, they are empowered to build confidence, develop their talents, and contribute to a stronger ensemble.
Musical theatre is for everyone—and at The Artists Avenue, everyone truly means EVERYONE.
Our Directors
At The Artists Avenue, our directors are not just leaders; they are passionate mentors who believe in the transformative power of musical theatre to enrich the lives of young people. Each director brings their own unique journey and a heartfelt commitment to nurturing creativity, confidence, and community among our youth.
Melissa Rada,
Executive Director
Melissa blends faith, music, and service, aiding missions, community causes, and real estate clients.
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Larissa Enriquez,
Artistic Director
Larissa, with 10+ years' experience, leads choirs, directs musicals, & coaches music, inspiring others with creativity & faith.
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Mikaela Rada,
Director of Operations
Mikaela blends talent, organization & passion to inspire young artists through theater.​
Caylen Cara,
Creative Director
Caylen Cara uplifts voices through theater, hairstyling, and storytelling with passion.
Katrina Rada,
Head of the Dance Department
Katrina igniting stories through movement, inspiring young artists to shine with passion, purpose, and creativity.
Our Staff
Our teachers at The Artists Avenue are the heart of everything we do. With a passion for the arts and a deep commitment to each student, they create a supportive and encouraging space where creativity can flourish. More than just instructors, they are mentors who inspire confidence, foster growth, and help every young artist discover their unique voice. Through their guidance, students not only develop their skills in musical theatre but also grow into confident, kind, and expressive individuals.
Emily Maino,
Junior Theatre Troupe Director
Proud Artist Avenue alum and performer, sharing her journey and training to inspire the next generation of artists to pursue their passion with confidence, authenticity, and joy.
Jenna Najjar,
Senior Theatre Troupe Director
Musical theatre performer bringing professional experience to the classroom, inspiring young artists to grow with confidence, creativity, and passion.
Amelia Serrano Gallagher,
Dance Teacher
Performer and theatre educator based in Hoboken, NJ. She recieved her BFA in Musical
Theater from Syracuse
University and has since performed regionally, as well collaborated on new musical workshops.
Alex Llorca,
Dance Teacher
Barcelona-born versatile performer and choreographer. Specializing in Musical Theatre Jazz, he also trained in numerous styles including Tap, Commercial and Latin Dance, as well as acting, voice and modeling.
Our Trustees
Together with our directors, our staff create an inspiring environment at The Artists Avenue, where every young person can thrive through the joy of musical theatre. They are dedicated to not only developing talented performers but also nurturing compassionate individuals ready to make a difference in their communities. Join us as we celebrate creativity, collaboration, and the joy of performance!
Loyad Booker
Dorothy Agtarap